​Housing Program FAQs

​What type of housing does ASCF offer?
ASCF offers short-term housing on a first come, first served basis. All residences are equipped with their own full-service kitchens.  Most stays are between a few days to a few weeks. ASCF’s housing program is not intended for stays exceeding 8 weeks.
 
Who does ASCF's housing program serve?
We serve out-of-town families and/or individuals seeking cancer treatment, follow-up and/or second opinion in the Texas Medical Center on a first-come, first-served basis. Before a family may be considered, a complete application must be received by ASCF. Housing is intended for those cancer families seeking SHORT-TERM, TEMPORARY accommodations in our medical center.

Families are required to comply with all laws set forth by our local, state and federal government. Each family member housed by ASCF must also agree to adhere to ASCF's rules as well as any specified by the owners of our apartment property.  Unfortunately, at this time, our program is unable to accommodate families who have neither legal United States citizenship nor permanent legal residency in the United States. We also cannot accommodate individuals who may be traveling unaccompanied who are unable to provide self-care.

​Those not willing to comply with applicable laws and rules will be asked to leave and will not be considered for future ASCF services.  

What is the Texas Medical Center (TMC)?
The Texas Medical Center is the largest medical complex in the world. This medical mecca in the heart of Houston, is home to the largest cancer center and pediatric hospital in the world. 

Where are the residences?
ASCF residences are located in the heart of the Texas Medical Center (TMC) at 4115 Drake Street in Houston just minutes away from all major hospitals in the TMC.
 
How many bedrooms are available?
In order to accommodate as many families as possible, ASCF offers one and two bedroom residences with a majority being one bedroom. All residences are furnished with a sofa that can be converted into a queen-sized bed.  Inflatable air mattresses and pack & play sleepers may be available upon request.

Are the residences handicap equipped?
ASCF residences are 1st and 2nd story residences with no access to an elevator.  Those who have mobility issues may request a first floor residence.  Every effort will be made to accommodate such requests but will be based on availability.  A limited quantity of bathroom assistance devices are available upon request on a first come, first serve basis.

Are pets allowed?
No pets are allowed in order to provide a clean, allergen-free environment for patients. Only service dogs are excluded from this policy.
 
What forms do we need to complete to be considered for the program?
The online Short-term Housing Initial Application must be completed before consideration and it can be found by clicking here.

Who needs to complete and sign the forms?
Any family member, friend or guest planning to stay in ASCF housing will need to sign the appropriate forms as well as acknowledge and adhere to all laws and/or rules set forth by ASCF. 
 
What is the cost?
All housing is provided free-of-charge thanks to the generosity of ASCF donors however damage to residences or property may result in fines and/or future inability to participate in program services.

For those wishing to do so, donations made by check may be mailed to our postal address 4115 Drake Street, Suite 4, Houston, Texas 77005 or made online here. 
 
How do we apply?
Complete the ASCF's Short-term Housing Initial Application by clicking here.

How far in advance may we apply for housing?
Because treatment is unpredictable, ASCF makes every attempt to be as flexible as possible with the families currently residing in our residences. As a result, we are NOT able to confirm accommodations any sooner than one week prior to a family’s anticipated arrival date. Applications may be submitted in advance of this time and dates may be “penciled into the calendar.” Families are encouraged in such instances to check back with ASCF one week prior to arrival date for a status update.
 
What do we need to bring?
All residences are provided with towels, kitchenware, cooking utensils and other house wares and a dishwasher. Families should plan to provide their own food, beverage, toiletries, cleaning products and other disposable items. For a complete list of items included in each residence, please review the Move-in Checklist from the list of links provided under "How do we apply?" section.

Where do we put our trash we accumulate in the residence?
We want to be sure to keep the community clean and sanitary, so any accumulated trash from inside your residence must be appropriately bagged and taken to the trash cans located under the covered parking on the property. Trash collection is once a week and the ASCF team will take cans to the street each Monday by 5 p.m. It is not acceptable to place the trash in the hallways, in the stairwells or in any location not designated as a trash can or dumpster.
 
What is available in terms of parking?
One parking spot per family is available on the property at no charge. 
 
Where do we pick up the keys to the unit?
Once approved, keys to residences may be retrieved during regular business hours at the ASCF office located on the property. Please note that holiday hours may vary. Unfortunately, we are unable to accommodate arrivals outside of normal business hours.  As such, please make travel arrangements that will allow plenty of time to pick up keys from our office during our regular business hours. Should you arrive outside of regular business hours, please make alternate housing arrangements for that night.

Are there background checks for ASCF residents? 
ASCF will conduct a legal background check on any patient/s or guardian/s (18 years or older) applying for short-term housing and/or guests planning to stay in ASCF facilities. Non adherence to local, state and federal laws in the past may disqualify individuals from receiving services offered by ASCF. Background checks should be completed at least 4 full business days but no sooner than one week prior to anticipated date of arrival.